The controversial drug can often lead to someone having what has become known as 'Ozempic face', but why does this actually happen?
Ozempic has remained in the zeitgeist and has become widely known as something it wasn't originally intended for at all, with many people mistakingly branding the medication as a route to 'rapid weight loss'.
What is Ozempic?
The drug was created for patients with type 2 diabetes, lowering their blood sugars - helping the pancreas produce more insulin.
The drug is not FDA approved for weight loss purposes, yet many are using the injections daily for this very reason.
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There is currently a very high demand for the medication, especially over in the US, but it doesn't come without a notable price tag.
Doctors suggest injecting the drug into the thigh, upper arm, or abdomen once per week, but why are people seeing such a change in the way their face looks?
What is 'Ozempic face'?
'Ozempic face' has become synonymous with the notorious injectable, and refers to the fat around the face disappearing, causing a sunken and hollowed-out appearance.
Ozempic works to make a patient feel more full, hence why it can often cause weight loss, as it encourages you to eat fewer calories.
In some case, this can be more pronounced on the face.
It's also more notable as it's the first place people look when they greet you.
But facial fat serves a very important role - it's a necessity for facial aesthetics and elasticity.
Weight loss can often result in the fat that used to cushion the skin no longer being in place.
But fat isn't the only thing that is important for facial structure.
Using the drug can also lead to reduced levels of elastin and collagen, which are also essential.
People using Ozempic often report the following facial symptoms:
- Notable signs of aging, such as an increase lines and wrinkles
- A lot of lost fat, which leads the skin to become loose and saggy
- A more hollowed-out appearance
- Lipodystrophy, which controls how the body accumulates and stores fat
Is there a way to prevent it?
However, for people who are prescribed the drug for type 2 diabetes, there are ways in which they can reduce the chances of this happening.
The first is to take less of the medication, meaning the side effects aren't as severe.
Another is to ensure they are drinking at least 1-2 litres of water everyday.
They must also eat a protein-rich diet, and some doctors may even suggest a small amount of dermatological filler if someone is really unhappy with the side effects.
Mia Williams